Modelling Jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi) potential habitat off Peru validated throughout industry vessels catch and acoustic data

Abstract

We developed a 2D deterministic and probabilistic model to describe Jack Mackerel (Trachurus murphyi) potential habitat using satellite oceanography data and positional variables. The period of analysis was from January 2011 to December 2014, one test by fortnight, i.e., 96 tests in 4 years. Catches and acoustic data (when available) were loaded for adjusting and calibrating the results of the model. Results show a large and dispersal potential habitat under cold conditions, and inversely density increases when habitat reduces under warm seasons. This model was best represented in 2011 due to bigger catches compared to the following years (2012-14). Catches has been found to be better correlated when the probabilities in the model were higher than 0.6. A refinement to the model was introduced by loading fish schools detections and catches into the model. Nevertheless the model is strongly influenced by chlorophyll so that quality of results depends on the availability of clear satellite images.